The UK government has announced Sh390 million in funding to enhance digital access in Busia and Mandera Counties.
The funding will go towards 'Strengthening Digital Communities' project to increase digital access for marginalised groups.
The project aims to bridge the digital divide in Busia and Mandera Counties by enhancing access to digital skills and technology for women, youth, senior citizens, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
British Deputy High Commissioner Ed Barnett made the announcement during the launch of the Community Action Plan and the Agriculture Digital Platform at the Agriculture Training Centre in Busia County on Monday.
The aim is to reach over 190,000 people and 10,000 youth with digital skills contributing to Kenya's target of reaching 20 million digitally literate citizens by 2027.
“Putting young people, women and persons with disabilities at the heart of development is transformative," Barnett said.
The UK is committed to working with Kenya to ensure these underserved groups within the population enhance their digital skills and their access to vital services like e-citizen, secure jobs and participate meaningfully in this digital world," Barnett said.
The project is a partnership between the British High Commission and Kenya Information Communication and Technology Action Network (KICTANet).
They will work with various institutions including the National Council of Persons with Disabilities, Kenya Society for the Blind (KSB), and Technology For Growth (Tech4G) amongst others to ensure digital inclusivity.
This will improve livelihoods and foster socio-economic growth in these two counties which currently face significant challenges related to digital exclusion.
Speaking at the launch, KICTANet CEO Grace Githaiga said empowering marginalised communities with digital skills and resources will help break down barriers and create a more inclusive and equitable society.
"This project is about more than just technology, it is about empowering communities and creating opportunities for those who have been left behind by the digital revolution," she said.
"This partnership is not just an investment in technology but in the very future of the people of Busia, especially the underserved," Busia Governor Paul Otuoma said.
During his visit to Busia, the Deputy High Commissioner also visited a community health centre where adolescents aged 15-19 years are accessing reproductive health services.
The centre is enabled by a digital platform to tackle HIV infections, AIDS-related deaths, and teenage pregnancies.